The Music of Paris

Disc: 1

1. Cigi

2. Maria Elena

3. Charmaine

4. Mame

5. Lara's Theme (Somewhere My Love)

6. Hello, Dolly!

7. Sweet Maria

8. Margie

9. Michelle

10. Cecilia

Disc: 2

1. Souvenir de Montmartre

2. Moulin Rouge

3. Commissaire Maigret Theme

4. Seine

5. Rue Auz Fleurs

6. Pigalle

7. Valse de Copains

8. Marianne

9. Mademoiselle de Paris

10. C'Est Si Bon

See all 18 tracks on this disc

The Music of Paris,Various Artists,Delta,France,French,French Pop,Int'l & World Music,Pop,World Music

Average customer rating: Gershwin/Bernstein: Rhapsody In Blue and American In Paris A glorious tribute! A Truly Great Performance GLORIOUS! The Definitive Version and Good Sound Quality!

Gershwin: Rhapsody In Blue/An American In Paris Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Gershwin | Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Tone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music $6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Bernstein, Leonard | ( B ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Copland: Appalachian Spring/Fanfare For The Common Man/El Salón México/Danzón Cubano Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition; Night on Bald Mountain Copland: Appalachian Spring; Rodeo; Fanfare for the Common Man Prokofiev: Peter And The Wolf/Saint-Saëns: The Carnival Of The Animals Copland: Rodeo/Billy The Kid ASIN: B0000025MH Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Rhapsody in Blue
2. An American in Paris

Customer Reviews:

Gershwin/Bernstein: Rhapsody In Blue and American In Paris.......2007-01-16

In my opinion you just can't go wrong with Leonard Bernstein and the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. I have many of their recordings in addition to many recordings of other orchestras; some great, some not so much...but the New York Phil is cosistently great. This recording is a superb example of Gershwin's writing, thoughtfully reproduced by a fine orchestra. Both the brashness of the pieces and the subtleties are interpreted well by Mr. Bernstein and the orchestra. The soloists are nothing other than excellent. The brass section is easily as strong as the Chicago symphony's famous section, and the strings intonation is superb. The pathos and the humor of both pieces are readily projected by this sensitive orchestra and conductor. I couldn't recommend this recording higher!

A glorious tribute!.......2006-11-22

To play Gershwin accurately demands from the player, the absolute domain of an invisible taste, unsaid in the score. Few pianists (and Bernstein is among them) were able to convey the listener, this savoir vivre, humor, elegance, that idiomatic atmosphere that plainly justifies your effort.

To my mind, there just have been five pianists who have surmounted this peak: Oscar Levant, Jesus Maria Sanroma, Eugene List, Earl Wild and Leonard Bernstein.

So, under any pretext you should miss this invaluable musical gem.

A Truly Great Performance.......2006-08-19

I originally found this record in a used record store and purchased it for $1. This was not too long ago. After listening, i could not believe that this record only cost me $1 and that some idiot actually sold this to a used record store without listening first. I have never heard a performace of Rhapsody In Blue that is as powerful and heartfelt as this one. Bernstain melts into the piano, resulting in a performance that outshines so many Gershwin performances that exist. On the other side of the record is An American In Paris, a textbook tone poem, and i mean this as a great compliment. The images of Paris and a partially homesick/partially jubilant American strolling along exude from every note. When i found these great performances on CD, i snatched up a copy as quickly as i could. GET THIS RECORD. It is truly a Great Performance.

GLORIOUS!.......2006-07-21

This review refers to "Great Performances: Gershwin - Rhapsody in Blue/An American In Paris"(CD)

Well, how can you go wrong when Leonard Bernstein, with the help of the Columbia Symphony Orchestra and the New York Philharmonic, conducts(and performs brilliantly on piano)these two George Gershwin greats.You just can't. Even the quality of the CD is excellent.

Rhapsody will carry you away to some other place for a while. From that very first bluesy note, Bernstein and Orchestra will have you wrapped up in all it's jazzy glory. It's music that defines the word greatness and it's THE song I would pick (if I could only pick one) that exemplifies the masterfulness of American composers.

An American In Paris is wonderful. The feeling of a tourist on the loose in Paris is expertly portrayed through this recording. The highs, the lows and all the delights. I felt a part of it all(and I'm a long way from Paris!)

Now, if you have read any of my other CD reviews, you know that right about here is where I complain ,and sometimes even take a star off of my rating, when a CD is too short(considering how easy it is to get music elsewhere these days). But I have to say, even though the total time on this CD is only about 35 minutes, what a glorious 35 minutes it is.
Rhapsody a wonderful 16:26 and American In Paris a Yummy 18:22.
It's music that never gets old. It stands the test of time, and many repeated playings.

So you may want to keep a copy of this in your car. A great way to start your day. Listen on the way to work, and you'll have that "what? me worry?" attitude. Also fabulous for destressing on the way home from a long days work.It just seems to make everything okay.

As I said the CD has a nice quality. It also has a booklet with some notes on how Gershwin came to compose these songs.

Gershwin performed by Bernstein..it was meant to be!
Enjoy it...Laurie

The Definitive Version and Good Sound Quality!.......2006-06-06

This ADD recording has surprisingly good sound quality for an older recording that hasn't been remastered. The performance by Bernstein and both the Columbia Symphonic and the NY Philharmonic on the pieces is simply breathtaking. You'd be hard pressed to find better interpretations of these Gershwin masterpieces. The only problem with this album is that it's very short and although would have been the perfect length on an lp or cassette as it was originally, it seems to be a waste of cd space here. Sony should probably remaster this and add some tracks like perhaps "Porgy and Bess" to make it a better value proposition. I hope they re-release a remastered version on mini-lp sleeve replica packaging too.

Average customer rating: Diana Krall at her best you know that Very Enjoyable and that's all that matters... Not a fan of live albums, but this one's energy shines through terrific band

Live in Paris Diana Krall Manufacturer: Umvd Labels ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music Vocal Jazz General | Vocal Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Jazz | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music $9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Jazz | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Girl In The Other Room The Look of Love All for You: A Dedication to the Nat King Cole Trio When I Look in Your Eyes Love Scenes ASIN: B00006J9OT Release Date: 2002-10-01

Tracks:

1. I Love Being Here With You
2. Let's Fall in Love
3. 'Deed I Do
4. The Look of Love
5. East of the Sun (and West of the Moon)
6. I've Got You Under My Skin
7. Devil May Care
8. Maybe You'll Be There
9. 'S Wonderful
10. Fly Me to the Moon
11. A Case of You
12. Just the Way You Are

Amazon.com

Recorded at the historic Olympia Theatre in Paris in November 2001, this is Diana Krall's first live album. Backed by her quicksilver combo of bassist John Clayton, drummer Jeff Hamilton, and guitarist John Pisano (on some tracks), Krall's jazz heritage comes through loud and clear on this program of standards, ballads, and bossa novas. On Peggy Lee's "I Love Being Here with You," Bob Dorough's "Devil May Care," and Frank Sinatra's "Fly Me to the Moon," Krall's snappy, postbop piano playing shows off her debt to Nat "King" Cole and Jimmy Rowles. Her cool contralto vocals are illuminated by the Orchestre Symphonique Europeen, under the direction of Alan Broadbent, as well as the London Symphony Orchestra, led by conductor Claus Ogerman. Krall's deep take on Joni Mitchell's "A Case of You" is a great choice for an encore, and the CD concludes with Billy Joel's "Just the Way You Are" (a studio track from a film called The Guru), with tenor saxophonist Michael Brecker and bassist Christian McBride. This collection only hints at what Diana Krall has to offer in the future.--Eugene Holley Jr.

Album Description

Canadian version of 2002 live release includes one exclusive bonus track, 'Charmed Life' & the U.S. bonus track, 'Just The Way You Are' (Studio Version/Billy Joel cover). The first-ever live concert recording from Grammy winning vocalist/pianist Diana Krall, recorded at the Paris Olympia Theatre winter 2002. Here finally, captured in amazing audio quality, is an album showcasing the magic of Krall's concert performances. Krall & her band - perform some of the tunes from Krall's studio recordings, such as 'East of the Sun (West of the Moon)' & 'Devil May Care'. Joined by special guests John Pisano (acoustic guitar) & Paulinho DaCosta (percussion) for several tracks, including the Gershwin's 'S'wonderful'. The Orchestre Symphonique European, conducted by Alan Broadbent with special guest conductor Claus Ogerman, is featured on the upbeat 'Let's Fall in Love' & a haunting interpretation of 'I've Got You

Album Details

Includes Two Bonus Tracks of "Charmed Life" and the Enhanced Track "Look of Love".

Customer Reviews:

Diana Krall at her best.......2007-06-20

Hoppin', jazzy live performance -- my favorite Diana Krall CD.

you know that.......2007-04-12

shush shuh shuh shuh sound that new cordoroy pants make? Well that's what Krall sounds like wiht her sibilant "s". Is she singing through false teeth?

Very Enjoyable and that's all that matters..........2007-02-24

For those reviewers trying to compare Diana Krall to people like Sarah Vaughn... forget it!!! She's not Vladamir Horowitz or the Pope either!!! To give her a low rating based on that is absurd.

This is a very very good Jazz band and Diana Krall swings. She plays well and she does an incredible amount with the voice that the maker gave here. The album is very enjoyable to me and it's a good place to start if you want to hear Diana Krall.

Is she great? That question is so subjective and who cares anyway. One reviewer suggested that calling her great was disrespectful to the great Jazz singers. Popular singers like Diana bring attention to Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughn and Sinatra etc... People start with Diana and move backward from there... 5 stars from this reviewer!!!

Not a fan of live albums, but this one's energy shines through.......2007-01-19

Diana Krall is amazing no matter whether she's live or in studio recording. This is her first live album and is based on a lot of jazz standards. What I like is this has the energy of a live album, but someone has engineered most of the audience sussurus out.

terrific band.......2007-01-19

I do enjoy Ms. Krall's singing but for me it's the incredible interplay between the musicians (including Krall's piano) the merits the 5 stars. I acually have the DVD which I highly recommend. Anthony Wilson not only plays brillantly but gets the best guitar tone of any other live recording I've heard. Jeff Hamilton and John Clayton are tight and telepathic - pure genuis in rhythm. Both Claus Ogerman and Allan Broadbent offer great arrangements and work the Orchestra deftly. And Diana sings. The production is perfect. This could not be any better.

Average customer rating: Now you can always have Paris! Paris, City for Dreamers French Music for YOUR Home Cool and seductive. Great intro to La Chanson Francaise for the novice...

Putumayo Presents: Paris Various Artists Manufacturer: Putumayo World Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music General | Euro Pop | Pop | Styles | Music French Pop | Euro Pop | Pop | Styles | Music International | Putumayo World Music Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: French Cafe Putumayo Presents: Italian Café Putumayo Presents: Music from the Wine Lands Putumayo Presents: Turkish Groove Putumayo Presents: Acoustic Brazil ASIN: B000E6UX20 Release Date: 2006-04-18

Tracks:

1. Au Cafe De La Paix - Thomas Fersen
2. Samba De Mon Coeur Qui Bat - Coralie Clement
3. Dites Moi Tu - Karpatt
4. Quelqu'un M'a Dit - Carla Bruni
5. Je Reste Au Lit - Pascal Parisot
6. Jardin D'Hiver - Keren Ann
7. Serre-Moi - Tryo
8. Lettre A P... - Paris Combo
9. L'ongle - Presque Oui
10. Ta P'tite Flamme - Amelie-Les-Crayons
11. Les Pages - Myrtille
12. Carpe Diem - Aldebert

Product Description

Highlighting artists from the Nouvelle Scene (New Scene), Paris features modern takes on classic French chanson. Thomas Fersen Au Café de la Paix Coralie Clément Samba de Mon Cur Qui Bat Karpatt Dites Moi Tu Carla Bruni Quelqu'un M'a Di

Amazon.com

Many Putumayo compilations fail to capture the essence of a specific region by focusing on music that is simply too polite for its own good. When it comes to the languid charms of French chanson, however, the label has always excelled. An indispensable companion to the previously released French Café Paris focuses on the renaissance of French popular music in the hands of artists such as the raspy voiced Thomas Fersen, supermodel-turned-songwriter Carla Bruni and the ineffable Paris Combo-- arguably, the one group that started the smoky cabaret song revival in the mid-'90s. An air of luxury and languor defines the 12 tracks here, from the breezy bossa nova of Coralie Clément's "Samba de Mon Coeur Qui Bat" ("Samba of my Beating Heart") to the accordion laced atmospherics of Amelie-Les-Crayons and the wistful "Ta P'tite Flamme" ("Your Little Flame"). Judging by this disc, contemporary French pop may very well be one of the most exciting musical movements in the world right now. --Ernesto Lechner

Customer Reviews:

Now you can always have Paris!.......2007-05-15

This is an outstanding compilation of contemporary French artists who have captured that certain "je ne sais quoi" that characterizes the French "chanson" style of entertainment. The music may be "Nouvelle Scène" but it has that timeless evocative quality from the days of Edith Piaf. Putumayo has produced a real classic for lovers of French music.

My only criticism might be that it's too bad that Putumayo does not include the lyrics to the songs!

Paris, City for Dreamers.......2007-04-11

Yowsa! This album touches a deep chord in my soul...suddenly, I am 20 and Paris is PARIS, the city of romance of my youth...bring on ennui and Francoise Sagan...[sigh]

French Music for YOUR Home.......2007-03-25

I listened to cuts from this CD and Putumya's French Cafe and selected this one! I'm So glad I did. It's the perfect French music to play in a home setting if you want to set a "French" atmosphere. I play it when I cook a fabulous French meal and have friends over for dinner. It does not come off as too cafe-like. Rather just gorgeous, melodic mostly soft French music. Some cuts are a bit more jazzy but still great background music. Some typical "cafe" music is just too much with the accordian already!!! This is not and some "older" French music of this style can drone a bit - this is just pretty with soft vocals - just right for getting you in a French mood!

Cool and seductive........2007-03-10

Why is it so easy to sound cool and seductive when singing in French? The language seems to demand a dulcet, husky singing voice that implies the song was composed, practiced and recorded in a bed.
Packed with some of the best, chilled French café songs of the moment, Paris is this summer's essential for barbeques, soirées, dinner parties or possibly just for those hot nights in.

From Coralie Clément singing seductively about the "Samba de Mon Coeur Qui Bat" to the equally seductive Carla Bruni's "Quelqu'un M'a Dit", Keren Ann's "Jardin d'Hiver" -- which she whispers rather than sings -- and Karpatt's caressed and tapped acoustic guitar, this is a compilation of class and smooth charm.

While Paris recalls the heyday of French chanson it is a thoroughly modern mix from the nouvelle scène. It's entirely easy listening -- nothing from the outer reaches of French culture here.

Part of the proceeds from each CD sold goes to Terre des Hommes, who support disadvantaged children around the world, so you can feel good about your purchase while humming along to the catchy tunes.

Great intro to La Chanson Francaise for the novice..........2007-03-06

If you enjoy music of various world traditions, this album is a fun introduction to chanson, the traditional French music style that emerged between the wars. This album gives a nice diverse palate of contemporary artists celebrating this tradition, sometimes straight up and sometimes with a modern twist.
If you like the songs on this album, definitely check out Rupa and the April Fishes. Rupa Marya is an Indian woman living in San Francisco who sings in French; the April Fishes' music is a jazzy eclectic riff off of chanson, and is definitely 5-star. If it weren't enough that she's beautiful and sings like an angel, Rupa in her "free time" is also a medical doctor. Talk about talent. Check 'em out!

Average customer rating: Cocktail Disco "Greetings ladies and gentleman, welcome to the wonderful world of Cocktail Disco." Welcome back to the '70s...

Cocktail Disco Dimitri from Paris Manufacturer: Bbe ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Disco | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music House | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music Similar Items: In the House of Love Buzzin' Fly, Vol. 4 Those Things Back in the Box The Kings of Disco ASIN: B000PAAI70 Release Date: 2007-06-19

Tracks:

1. Summertime [Original LP Version] - The Blue Velvets
2. Ocean's Apart [Original 12" Version] - Vast Majority
3. Never Too Late [Original 12" Version] - Victoria Hubbard Barnes
4. Girl from Ipanema [Original 12" Version] - Astrud Gilberto
5. C'est Si Bon [Original LP Version] - Rhoda Scott
6. It's Got to Be Love [Original 12" Version] - Darcus
7. Who Can I Turn To (When Nobody Needs Me) [Original 12" Version]
8. Joy of You [Original 12" Version]
9. Disco Village [Original 12" Version]
10. Show You the Way to Go [Original LP Version] - Charlie's Roots
11. Starfight [Original 12" Version]

Tracks:

1. What You Need Is My Love [Original 12" Version] - Cindy & Tito Rodriguez
2. Never Gonna Let You Go [Original 12" Version]
3. Take Me with You [Original 12" Version] - Ralfi Pagan
4. Frenesi [Original LP Version] - The Ritchie Family
5. Lady of the Night (Hey Honey Come Gimme Money) [Original 12" Version]
6. Canteen [Original 12" Version]
7. Keep It Up - Nightfall
8. Little High Things [Original 12" Version]
9. Something About You [Original 12" Version]
10. Again [Original 12" Version] - Night People
11. Baby, I Just Wanna Love You [Original 12" Version] - Jonelle Allen

Customer Reviews:

Cocktail Disco.......2007-07-07

A fantastic collection, easily the equal of Dimitri from Paris' best disco compilations. Feel good music.

"Greetings ladies and gentleman, welcome to the wonderful world of Cocktail Disco.".......2007-06-24

This 22 track, double CD showcases a special sub genre of disco music that in its heyday may have been referred to as "Slease", but now Monsieur Dimitri the king of disco has coined a new name for it in which it will forever be known now to the world as "Cocktail Disco".

Dimitri from Paris (DFP) is no stranger to disco and anyone who has been following his career knows that he is possibly the number 1 de facto leader or ambassador to this genre of music post its rise and fall in the late 1970's. Not surprisingly he continues to favor and deeply supports the genre faithfully, this album is a true testiment to that note.

"And what does Cocktail Disco refer to you may ask?... Rich orchestrations, a touch of Latin influence, the ubiquitous 4/4 Disco beat, and rather over the top vocals... Maybe some would find it Cheesy, I would rather say cheeky and glamorous, something that would be fit for a Broadway musical show."

His two album releases from the "Defected in the House" label showcase the music side he is known for spinning when he is in a live event club space. Here Dimtri returns to the major indie London based DJ label "BBE" in which he also has two prior album releases with. DFP with this record label is oriented with his disco loving side (Both prior albums have disco in the title "Disco Forever" and "The Kings of Disco"). Contrary to what all previous albums were like, this one is different in the fact that it is unmixed but rather compiled. He chose to unalter any of the music to keep them true to their original sound. All the tracks are their full-length versions however and even though they are not mixed or original compositions, they still are very much Dimitri and each song rings his name loudly.

Welcome back to the '70s..........2007-06-20

This compilation is so "Love Boat" that I'm sure it's no coincidence that the cover art features a cruise ship.

But more to the point, unlike some of Dim's previous releases, this one feels very relaxed, and even though it's not a continuous mix per se, the tracks groove together flawlessly. Whether you play it loud to shake your booty to, or soft during your next swank soiree, this music is meant to be played.

Average customer rating: False emotion dexterity unquestioned Without soul! Artistically Improving The beginning of an anchorage - and Beethoven is well chosen.

Beethoven: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 4 Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Lang Lang: Dragon Songs (Plus DVD) Chopin, Liszt: Piano Concerto No. 1 Lang Lang Live at Carnegie Hall Piano Quintet in F Min / Complete String Quartets (1, 2, 3) Memory [Includes Bonus CD] ASIN: B000OYC3FM Release Date: 2007-05-08

Tracks:

1. 1. Allegro Con Brio
2. 2. Largo
3. 3. Rondo. Allegro
4. 1. Allegro Moderato
5. 2. Andante Con Moto
6. 3. Rondo. Vivace

Amazon.com

What a beautiful recording! Perhaps the most exciting thing about Lang Lang's playing is that when he plays softly and lyrically, he doesn't sound as if he's holding back; when he opts to stomp and yell, it sounds equally natural. The First Concerto is played with lightness and bounce in the outer movements and is as tuneful as imaginable in the stunning second movement's Largo. The Fourth Concerto is a whole other matter - mature Beethoven - and Lang rises easily to the occasion, playing with potency and handsome tone. The first movement makes us sit and admire his skill, and he is poetic and sensitive in the second movement. It would have been easy for him to run away with the final movement in a blaze of virtuosity, but he sticks to its classical outlines. These are superb performances, and the sonics are gloriously rich. --Robert Levine

Album Description

Lang Lang delivers his first-ever Beethoven recording, a stunning reading of the extensive Concerto no. 4 and the jubilant Concerto no. 1. Even though he has performed this repertoire extensively in concert, Lang Lang waited for the perfect moment and the perfect team to record his first pair of concertos from these milestones of piano repertoire When Lang Lang embarked on his international career, Christoph Eschenbach became one of his first and most enthusiastic proponents - and a mentor and close friend ever since, Eschenbach was the ideal collaborator for Lang Lang's first Beethoven recording. Nimbly supported by Eschenbach's superb Orchestre de Paris, with its tradition of having been the first orchestra ever in France to perform music by Beethoven, Lang Lang's performance gives further proof as to why he is one of today's most acclaimed pianists

Customer Reviews:

False emotion.......2007-07-10

Lang Lang is the worst pianist imaginable. If you want someone who can play the notes, go for it. But there's simply nothing more here. Even worse, he pretends that there is more. Every phrase is unbelievably contrived. It is like someone who apes all the moves of a great actor with none of the substance behind it. Absolutely abominable, atrocious, and offensive playing. Cannot believe that people are taken in by this charlatan.

dexterity unquestioned.......2007-07-07

He can do anything with a piano. All he needes now is to grow into these masterpieces.

Without soul!.......2007-06-10

Does he play Beethoven at all? If you like Beethoven piano concerto, please listen to Backhaus, Schnabel, Fischer or Perahia!

Artistically Improving.......2007-05-23

Lang Lang's technical abilities have overrun his artistic interpretations since the start of his recording career. While that remains a fairly accurate description, this recording shows definite progress. It seems somewhat unfair to denigrate the talents of so dextrous a musician as this young man but there you have it: when you are put on the world stage you are assessed by different standards.

And yet, Lang Lang shows signs of development that are encouraging. His performance of the First Concerto is both lively and exquisitely melodic, except for the occassionally ham-fisted showmanship he is often (and deservedly) derided for. However, the Fourth Concerto seems beyond his artistic grasp. While technically brilliant, it is a soulless and showy performance that displays none of the depth a more mature artist would be capabale of. Beethoven was not a composer known for showmanship but artistry and restraint. These are not qualities Lang Lang is exactly reknown for.

Still, Lang Lang's occassional lyricism can override his more exaggerated tendencies, which makes he and Beethoven quite compatible. This is what makes this CD as effective as it is. Perhaps this young man has received too much acclaim too soon. He needs time to mature as an artist but has so far chosen to present himself to the public at every possible turn. This recording indicates that there is something more to him than has consistently met the ear. Frustrating and encouraging at the same time, Lang Lang's latest CD shows a definite progression in his interpretive skills. It's exciting to think what may be coming in his future.

Finally, the typically exquisite DG sound and fidelity must be acknowledged. Every note and romantic passage is beautifully displayed in a pristine recording of gourgeous beauty. A wothwhile addition to any modern classical collection.

The beginning of an anchorage - and Beethoven is well chosen........2007-05-23

I could not agree more with Christoph Eschenbach's observation about Lang Lang - of the multi-repertoire that young Lang has savoured since his child prodigy days, he requires a specialty composer so as to be able to dwell deeper into the musical language, and Beethoven is probably the best choice for him.
I have listened and greatly admired the Harnoncourt Beethoven piano concertos (Harnoncourt being one of my favorite contemproary conductors since the 1970's). The orchestration in that recording was simply superb, and the character, style and soul of Harnoncourt in Beethoven's works hard to beat.
Eschenbach's conducting here is also good, but to my personal view, not as good as Harnoncourt's. This may be subjective, but I do find the authenticity in Beethoven's style some what lacking here.
Then the soloist - I must say that the soloist in Harnoncourt's set could not be compared with Lang Lang here. (Again my subjective view). That is not to say that Lang's playing is perfect, nor the best. Why compare him with Argerich? Argerich had declined Harnoncourt's invitation to record for HIM then, because she does not play the entire set of Beethoven Concertos, and would not want to learn those that she did not know.
So much for the mature pianist. The two concertos chosen here could indeed still be improved upon, though one must bear in mind that the 4th is considered to be the most introverted piano concertos of Beethoven, and Lang Lang had tuned down much of his highly inflammatory style. Lang's playing could interestingly be compared to Wilhelm Kempff's made in 1962 (when the pianist was 67 years old). Cannot imagine a young chap to be so reserved in this piece. A result of the vast criticisms he's got from negative reviewers?
The 3rd movement of the 1st concerto really should be more fiery, but Lang Lang some how missed the fireworks in this movement.
Lang Lang, so far, has NOT established himself as a virtuoso of any specialty, much unlike his compatriot Yundi Li. Well, in my humble view this is something that he should do right now. And I've heard that he is going to record more Beethoven concertos with Eschenbach. This is certainly good news.

Average customer rating: Not bad The best from the three greatest... Just Like the Real Thing! Powerful and moving! Great Compilation

The Best of the Three Tenors Luciano Pavarotti , Placido Domingo , Jose Carerras , Zubin Mehta , and James Levine Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Lehár, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Rodgers, Richard | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Schifrin | Schifrin, Lalo | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Film Scores | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Similar Items: The Three Tenors Christmas Carreras · Domingo · Pavarotti ~ the three tenors in concert / Mehta Romantica: The Very Best Of Luciano Pavarotti The 3 Tenors in Concert 1994 Pavarotti: Greatest Hits ASIN: B00004UB8A Release Date: 2002-06-11

Tracks:

1. 'O sole mio
2. Funiculi, funicula
3. Libiamo ne' lieti calici (Brindisi)
4. Sous le ciel de Paris
5. Torero quiero ser
6. Parlami d'amore, Mariu
7. Manha de Carnaval
8. Lolita
9. Dicitencello vuie
10. Core 'ngrato
11. Because
12. You'll Never Walk Alone
13. Singin' In The Rain
14. Maria
15. Tonight
16. 'O paese d' 'o sole
17. Cielito lindo
18. Ochi tchorniye
19. Caminito
20. La Vie en Rose
21. Mattinata
22. Wien, Wien, nur du allein
23. Amapola
24. Lippen schweigen
25. Brazil
26. Sous les ponts de Paris
27. Torna a Surriento
28. Nessun dorma
29. La donna e mobile

Amazon.com

Back in 1990, three of the world's most celebrated tenors--namely, José Carreras, Plácido Domingo, and Luciano Pavarotti--combined forces to create the Three Tenors, now celebrated on a best-of CD. They gave their first concert in Rome. The event was recorded and went on to become one of the best-selling classical titles of all time.

This latest release brings together tracks from that night in Rome (including "Nessun dorma" and a competitive rendition of "O sole mio") with music performed in a 1994 concert in Los Angeles and at the 1998 event in Paris where the Three Tenors sang to an audience of thousands with the Eiffel Tower as their backdrop.

The 22 tracks making up The Best of the Three Tenors range from operatic standards, such as the joyful "Brindisi" from La Traviata, to popular songs like "Singin' in the Rain" and "You'll Never Walk Alone" (from Carousel). There are no solos on this disc; each piece is performed by all three singers. And with plenty of applause and cheering to be heard, not to mention the sense of fun in the singers' voices, the disc captures the atmosphere of these extraordinary musical events. --Rebecca Agnew

Customer Reviews:

Not bad.......2006-03-18

This is a good recording. If you don't like the 3 tenors, then look else where. It's that simple. These are recordings from concerts where they WERE supposed to show off. This ain't opera. If you want opera, go out and attend one.

The best from the three greatest..........2005-08-11

The first thing we must establish here is that this is not meant to be opera. This is three exceptionally talented tenors enjoying themselves and giving tremendous joy to those listening by singing mostly popular "evergreens" and also some operatic arias. The beauty in music lies in the diversity, in my opinion. One can better appreciate one type of music when one knows about the others. And why should we limit ourselves to listen to just one genre in music. It would be the same as having steak for dinner every day for the rest of your life, wouldn't it? So why should we limit three wonderful tenors to only sing operatic arias for the rest of their lives? If so we wouldn't have "Maria", "You'll never walk alone", "Singing in the rain" or any of the evergreens on this recording and that would be a shame.

There are no solos on the cd. I think I've read somewhere that they felt there had been enough "three tenors cd's" and if they were to release yet another one it would be one containing what the audience demands, the three of them joining forces and performing together in the songs.
The result, in my opinion is highly recommendable. The three voices blend perfectly together. I have to admit that I have a personal favourite among the tenors and that I would never buy an entire recording featuring only one of the two others, but I recognize their talents and -as stupid as it may sound- since they are performing together I can also appreciate the other two. (I like them too, but in smaller doses....)Some people have commented on their problems with mastering the english language. If anything, I think it just adds to their charm. By the way, who is perfect??

The songs on this cd is a mixture of beautiful songs, heartwrenching songs, toe-tapping songs and powerful songs. It's wonderful to just listen to the beauty in the three voices. It's fun hearing Pavarotti pushing his "high-note-button" in "O sole mio" and Carreras and Domingo copying his stunt. I have no idea what they're singing about in "Manha de Carnaval", but boy does it sound romantic...... And "Dicitencello vuie" brings tears to my eyes (even if I'm still left in the dark when it comes to understanding the meaning of the words...) In "Because" Carreras takes my breath away when singing "because God made thee mine, I'll cherish thee...through light and darkness, through all time to be, and pray his love may make our love divine...." (What woman wouldn't like to hear those words..??!?) Their rendition of "You'll never walk alone" should satisfy some of the soccer-fans since it's the anthem of a European football-club and "Nessun Dorma" will probably satisfy the rest of the soccer-fans, being the antheme of the 1998 world soccer championship. In short, there should be something for every taste on this cd.

It's a very "versatile" cd. You can play it almost everywhere. You can sing along to it in the car, you can dance around the house to it while doing your chores, you can put your feet up and unwind after a hectic week. Or you can write an Amazon review while listening to it.... (Feel free to add suggestions of your own here.....)

To make a long story short - a very enjoyable cd!

Just Like the Real Thing!.......2005-07-14

A few years ago I was lucky enough to actually see a Three Tenors concert. The experience was amazing. Later I bought this CD. I was so happy when I listened to it because the CD captures the mood of being present at the concert. I like the variety and every time I play it, I am taken back to my personal experience at the concert. Hearing the audiences on the CD really gets you excited about hearing this amazing trio.

Powerful and moving!.......2004-10-21

I got this CD as a gift and it changed my life! I was always a rocker and liked classical music, but never was much into this genre of music. This album changed all of that. Since getting the three tenors I've found a whole new world out there. Thank you guys!

Great Compilation.......2003-07-16

Definitely worth purchasing. It is not an opera CD - it is a concert CD with 3 superb tenor voices that blend together so nicely. A wonderfully entertaining music CD with lots of variety and an opportunity for opera to grow on non-opera lovers. What else can you expect from the BEST. A DVD version would be wonderful.

Average customer rating: K.Teezy Bizet: Carmen (Callas, Gedda, et al) Imperfect? Maybe. Worthwhile? Yes! Throw me into solitary confinement with this CD Callas...Callas...Callas...

Bizet: Carmen (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Nicolai Gedda, Georges Pretre, Paris Opera Orchestra Georges Bizet , Maria Callas , Nicolai Gedda , Georges Prêtre , Orchestre de Théâtre National de l'Opéra de Paris , Choeurs René Duclos , Robert Massard , Jane Berbié , Andrea Guiot , and Claude Cales Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Callas, Maria | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Puccini: Madama Butterfly (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Lucia Danieli, Nicolai Gedda, Herbert von Karajan, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan Puccini: Tosca (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Tito Gobbi, Victor de Sabata, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan Verdi: La Traviata (complete opera live 1955) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Carlo Maria Giulini, Orchestra & Chorus of La Scala, Milan Puccini - La Bohème / Freni, Pavarotti, Harwood, Ghiaurov, Karajan Puccini: La Boheme (complete opera) with Maria Callas, Giuseppe di Stefano, Anna Moffo, Antonino Votto, Chorus & Orchestra of La Scala, Milan ASIN: B000002RXS Release Date: 1997-08-19

Tracks:

1. Carmen: Prelude - (Orchestre)
2. Carmen: Act One: Sur la place - (Choeur/Morales/Micaela)
3. Carmen: Act One: Avec la garde montante - (Choeur d'enfants/Morales/Jose)
4. Carmen: Act One: C'est bien la, n'est-ce pas
5. Carmen: Act One: La cloche a sonne... Dans l'air, nous suivons des yeux la fumee - (Choeur)
6. Carmen: Act One: Quand je vous aimerai ?... L'amour este un oiseau rebelle - (Carmen/Choeur)
7. Carmen: Act One: Carmen ! sur tes pas, nous nous pressions tous ! - (Choeur/Carmen/Jose)
8. Carmen: Act One: Quels regards ! Quelle effrontere !
9. Carmen: Act One: Parle-moi de ma mere !
10. Carmen: Act One: Reste la, maintenant, pendant que je lirai - (Jose/Micaela)
11. Carmen: Act One: Que se passe-t-il donc la-bas?...Au secours! Au secours! - (Zuniga/Choeur)
12. Carmen: Act One: Mon officer, c'etait une querelle - (Jose/Zuniga/Carmen)
13. Carmen: Act One: Pres des remparts de Seville - (Carmen/Jose)
14. Carmen: Act One: Voico l'ordre; partez - (Zuniga/Carmen)
15. Carmen: Entr'acte - (Orchestre)
16. Carmen: Act Two: Les tringles des sistres tintaient - (Carmen)
17. Carmen: Act Two: Messieurs, Pastia me dit - (Frasquita/Zuniga/Carmen/Mercedes)
18. Carmen: Act Two: Vivat ! vivat ! le Torero ! - (Choeur/Zuniga)
19. Carmen: Act Two: Votre toast, je peux vous le rendre -(Escamillo/Choeur)
20. Carmen: Act Two: La belle, un mot - (Escamillo/Carmen/Zuniga)
21. Carmen: Act Two: Eh bien ! vite, Quelles nouvelles ?.. Nous avons en tete une affaire - (Frasquita/Le Dancaire/Mercedes/Le Remendado/Carmen)

Tracks:

1. Carmen: Act Two: Mais qui donc attends-tu? - (Le Dancaire/Carmen/Le Remendado)
2. Carmen: Act Two: Halte-l- (Jose/Carmen/Frasquita/Mercedes/Le Dancaire/Le Remendado)
3. Carmen: Act Two: Enfin c'est toi! ...Tout doux, Monsieur, tout doux
4. Carmen: Act Two: La fleur que tu m'avais jet...Non, tu ne m'aimes pas - (Carmen/Jose)
5. Carmen: Act Two: Holarmen! HolHol- (Zuniga/Jose/Carmen/Le Dancaire/Le Remendado)
6. Carmen: Entr'acte - (Orchestre)
7. Carmen: Act Three: oute, ecoute, compagnon, ecoute - (Choeur/Le Dancaire/Remendado/Jose/Carmen/Mercedes/Frasquita)
8. Carmen: Act Three: Reposons-nous une heure ici, mes camarades - (Le Dancaire/Carmen/Jose)
9. Carmen: Act Three: Mns! Coupons! - (Frasquita/Mercedes/Carmen)
10. Carmen: Act Three: Eh bien? - (Carmen/Le Dancaire/Frasquita)
11. Carmen: Act Three: Quant au douanier, c'est notre affaire - (Carmen/Mercedes/Frasquita)
12. Carmen: Act Three: C'est des contrebandiers le refuge ordinaire...Je dis, que rien ne m'epouvante
13. Carmen: Act Three: Je ne me trompe pas...c'est lui sur ce rocher - (Micaela)
14. Carmen: Act Three: Quelques lignes plus bas...HolholJos (Escamillo/Jose/Carmen/Le Dancaire/Micaela/Frasquita/Mercedes/Remendado/Choeur)
15. Carmen: Entr'acte - (Orchestre)
16. Carmen: Act Four: A deux cuartos! A deux cuartos! - (Choeur/Zuniga)
17. Carmen: Act Four: Les voici! voici la quadrille! - (Choeur/Escamillo/Carmen/Frasquita)
18. Carmen: Act Four: C'est toi!...Carmen, il est temps encore ...Viva! viva! la course est belle! - (Carmen/Jose/Choeur)

Amazon.com essential recording

This recording was made near the end of Maria Callas's career. It is a role she never sang onstage, but it suited her almost perfectly, and she gives a deep, compelling performance on this recording. The mezzo-soprano tessitura was comfortable for her voice, and the role did not call for a pretty sound. Nor did the recording studio require the kind of huge vocal power expected in an opera house. And furthermore, the character of a strong-willed, capricious, sexually compelling woman who thinks exclusively of herself was close to the offstage personality that made Callas so famous. --Joe McLellan

Customer Reviews:

K.Teezy.......2007-07-11

Received the product in a very timely manner....I've enjoyed listening to the CD on the way into work. It helps me relax.

Bizet: Carmen (Callas, Gedda, et al).......2007-01-10

Of the many recordings of Carmen that I've owned, this is the best. Callas has the perfect voice for it.

Imperfect? Maybe. Worthwhile? Yes!.......2006-10-11

Maria Callas' CARMEN has had at best, a checkered history. It seems to have found a permanent home in many record collections over the years, considering it has been released as an LP, cassette, and now CD, so it's loved by many if not by all the critics. It had some foes before it was released. Callas had never performed CARMEN on stage and in 1964 when the set was first issued, it was believed that a recording should only showcase an artist's best work after years of perfection. Since Maria Callas was Maria Callas, Angel records took a chance and released it, knowing she'd probably never attempt the role on stage. As soon as it was released, there was a noticeable decline in her vocal abilities, which caught many fans off guard. Still, it's stood the test of time. Maria Callas at her not so great is still better than some at their peak, and even if the voice isn't perfect, it still has an expressive quality to it that's evident to anyone who listens to it.

Maria Callas' performance for this set is interesting. One of the greatest strengths of her singing was her ability to portray a character through her voice and this may be why this set has a loyal following. We feel as if we are encountering the fiery, sensual woman that is Carmen in just about every note that Callas sings. It's hard not to forgive what some critics called an imperfect vocal performance when there is such a passion behind the singing. In the end, we have one of the most original interpretations of the role. Callas is joined by tenor Nicolai Gedda. Technically Gedda's performance cannot be faulted. He hits the notes and sings with ease. For Don Jose, this may not be enough, however. We want Jose to darken vocally as the opera progresses, and this does not happen. Gedda's strength is his beautiful voice that has suited him well in a great array of operas, but it doesn't have the robust quality that tenors such as Domingo or Corelli can bring to the role. For some of the opera's more tender moments, most notably the Don Jose/ Micaela duet in Act I "Parle-moi De Ma Mere," Gedda's light and lyrical voice is a perfect fit. I find the duet astounding and it could arguably be the best rendition of this work, which is due in no small part also to the beautiful voice of Andrea Guiot, who likewise gives a great solo performance in her aria "Je Dis, que rien ne `epouvante". Robert Messard as Escamillo does the job, but lacks the bravado of the confident lady-killer bullfighter he supposed to be. The orchestra and chorus under the direction of Georges Pretre perform beautifully and the smaller roles are all well cast.

With an opera such as CARMEN, where so many great singers have performed and recorded major roles, there is stiff competition between sets. It also seems as if there isn't one perfect set. Some great Carmens have been paired with lousy casts, and some lousy Carmens have great casts. This set isn't perfect, but overall it has a certain flow to it and for me, it feels like a CARMEN should feel.

Throw me into solitary confinement with this CD.......2006-01-25

My favorite singer singing my favorite opera. No other opera is so filled with fresh, innovative melodies... dramatic polar contrasts/opposites, and choir-multiple character interactions. No singer is as clean ( with accurate timing of gasps and rests) dramatic and prolific as Callas. In my mind this is the pinnacle of opera and most definitely of the non-Italian 19th century operatic landscape.

Callas...Callas...Callas..........2005-12-21

Even though Callas did not play "Carmen" on stage, she really saw through Carmen. AMAZING.

Average customer rating: Good Music to Sleep By Enjoyment Best Music to Have on When You Work Excellent for Massage! MOZART FOR MEDITATION

Mozart for Meditation Manufacturer: Philips ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Concertinos | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Divertimentos | Serenades & Divertimentos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music French Horn | Brass | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Flute | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | New Age General | New Age | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Similar Items: Beethoven at Bedtime: A Gentle Prelude to Sleep Debussy for Daydreaming: Music to Caress Your Innermost Thoughts Bach at Bedtime: Lullabies for the Still of the Night Mozart at Midnight Baroque at Bathtime: A Relaxing Serenade to Wash Your Cares Away ASIN: B0000041CD Release Date: 1995-01-17

Tracks:

1. Flute Concerto No. 1 In G
2. Piano Concerto No. 23 in A
3. Horn Concerto No. 4 In E-Flat
4. Symphony No. 31 In D: Symphony No. 31 In D - Andante
5. Piano Concerto No. 15 In B-Flat
6. Violin Concerto No. 4 In D
7. Wind Serenade No. 12 In C Minor - Andante: Wind Serenade No. 12 In C Minor
8. Concerto For Flute And Harp I - In C - Andatino
9. Piano Concerto No. 27 In B-Flat
10. Symphony No. 34 In C: Symphony No. 34 In C - Andante Di Molto
11. Fantasia In D Minor

Customer Reviews:

Good Music to Sleep By.......2007-06-08

Well, as far as music for meditation goes, I'm not so sure about this product for that purpose. When I meditate, I tend to need more monotonous sounds to do it by - however, this CD is GREAT for relaxation and sleeping. So I still give it 4 out of 5 stars even though I won't be using it for its stated purpose. Still well-worth the money.

Enjoyment.......2007-05-07

All the pieces are the perfect ones for the relaxation. As a collector I am impressed of the selections chosen for this album.

Best Music to Have on When You Work.......2007-01-22

When I am working and I need to block out sounds to concentrate on what I am doing, I always put on this CD. Besides the fact that it is easy to listen to, it doesn't distract me from my work, and I never get bored or tired of the music. I'm reluctant to purchase a similar album in the fear that it won't be as good as the Mozart Meditation.

Excellent for Massage!.......2006-04-06

I'm a licensed massage therapist, and I absolutely adore using this CD during my sessions! It's a great alternative to the new age-y music styles that are so pervasive in the relaxation music scene -- my clients find this CD soothing & relaxing, and not at all "weird". This music suports a "relaxed but focused" atmosphere -- it serves as excellent white noise in the lobby area, and I even use it at home as a soothing backdrop for reading/ sewing/ paperwork/ etc. Excellent arrangements & clarity -- DON'T MISS!

MOZART FOR MEDITATION.......2005-09-07

Excellent CD. Love to have it playing in the background of my daily schedule. Soothing. Gentle. Contemplative. HIghly recommend it.

Average customer rating: Upbeat Jazz If you like Pink Martini Highly entertaining, keeps you jumping Cool fusion continues, but start with one of their earlier CDs Witty, urbane, funky beats

Motifs Paris Combo Manufacturer: Drg ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD France | Continental Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Cabaret | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music French Pop | Euro Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Hang on Little Tomato Latenight Betty Sympathique Living Room Hey Eugene! ASIN: B0006SSNPA Release Date: 2005-01-11

Tracks:

1. High, Low, In
2. Calender
3. Aquarium
4. Ennemis Siamois
5. Etoile Pale
6. Touriste D'une Vie
7. Baguee
8. Motus
9. Reflet
10. Prete A Porter
11. Baron De Chaise
12. Discordance
13. Aleas
14. Je Ne Sais Qui Fumer

Amazon.com

With a sound made up of equal parts bossa nova and classic chanson transported almost unchanged from the 1960s, plus American jazz, Argentinean Tango, bal musette and the Manouche swing made famous by Django Reinhardt, Paris Combo undeniably personifies that city's aesthetic. French music and film tend to share an elegant, humorless, surreal, coolly theatrical artificiality so ingrained that observed or remembered passion becomes more seductive than the real thing. Style-over-substance is merely a different reality, no less involving than daily life. The band's membership includes a guitarist from Madagascar, a keyboardist/trumpeter from Australia, a French drummer and a French-Algerian guitarist, each of whom contribute whimsical, cosmopolitan images from their own travels. Bandleader-singer Belle du Berry's lyrics are wry metaphors, in which estrangement, loss and desire are experienced in nightclubs under the light of pink lampshades and each carefully posed film-noir frame is wreathed in expensive perfume and cigarette smoke. --Christina Roden

Customer Reviews:

Upbeat Jazz.......2007-06-24

Paris Combo is such a great upbeat jazz group that you can listen to liven up your day. Put this cd on and it is sure to put you in a good mood. A great combination to go along with anyone who listens to Pink Martini.

If you like Pink Martini.......2006-05-29

You'll love this CD. Obviously you don't have to know a language to enjoy music sung in it. The happy tune of this jazzy CD will make you want to dance in your car, as you make up words so that you can sing along.

Highly entertaining, keeps you jumping.......2006-05-20

I bought this CD on the basis that several reviewers indicated that if a listener liked the works of Pink Martini, that they would like this CD by Paris Combo. Well, they are right.

Many of the things I like about Pink Martini are present here. The work is delightful, playful, fun, and danceable. You will hear the influence of jazz, pop, swing, tango, and sophisticated lounge music. In one song you will hear Kurt Weil's influence and then in the next you hear the nightclub music found in 1940 gangster films. The range of music keeps you on your toes - but all in fun. Great for a cocktail party or to get yourself going on a Saturday morning.

Belle Du Barry, the vocalist, has great presentation. All the lyrics are in French.

Cool fusion continues, but start with one of their earlier CDs.......2006-03-23

They sound too satisfied and confident in their fusions here. The sharp edge of surprise I detect in their earlier work is absent here. This work is lighter, popper, loungier than earlier work, to its detriment. Still, the cool fusion continues-Hot club, boulevard, bossa nova, American swing.... Close listening reveals shifts from one style to another in almost every song, so they're still mixing it up. Maybe the edges are easier to see. Stand-outs: tr 7-Baguée (Big American driving beat subverted by quick trip-tongued French vocal, Gypsy finger-picked guitar). Très cool. tr 9- Reflet (Quick 30s Gypsy-viper instrumental). tr 14- Je ne sais qui fumer (Simple American blues with a cool, Parisian jaunt, swagger). [50:30]

Witty, urbane, funky beats.......2006-02-13

Paris Combo's latest album is a tour of another world, a forgotten era, when music moved your heart but was classy and seductive at the same time.

There is no one today producing a sound like this. Their music will stay with you; it is mesmerising.

Average customer rating: Beware - this is NOT the right version! Disc one is great....disc two doesn't exist...beware Hauntingly Beautiful Vive Savall and M. Sainte Colombe French Baroque Performed by The Absolute Master of the Viola Da Gamba

Tous Les Matins du Monde/Dix Ans Apres Manufacturer: Alia Vox Spain ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Baroque Dance Suites | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music | Allemandes | Courantes | Gigue | Sarabande General | Couperin, François | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Lully | Lully, Jean-Baptiste | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Marais | Marais, Marin | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Soundtracks | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: All the Mornings of the World (Tous les matins du monde) Two-Disc Edition Marin Marais · Sainte-Colombe ~ The Greatest Masterworks / Spectre de la Rose La Folia, 1490-1701 Marin Marais: Pièces de Viole du Second Livre, 1701 Villancicos y Danzas Criollas ASIN: B00005S0MD Release Date: 2002-03-12

Tracks:

1. Marche pour la ceremonie des Tures (Jean-Baptiste Lully)
2. Improvisations sur les folies d'Espagne (Marin Marais) - extraits
3. Prelude pour Mr. Vauquelin (Improvisation d'apres le Prelude en Sol mineur de Mr. de Sainte Colombe le fils)
4. Gavotte du Tendre (Mr. de Sainte Colombe)
5. Une jeune fillette (melodie populaire- arranged by Jordi Savall)
6. Les Pleurs (Mr. de Sainte Colombe) - solo version by Jordi Savall
7. Concert a deux violes " Le Retour" (Mr. de Sainte Colombe)
8. La Reveuse (Marin Marais) 4th book of Pieces de viole
9. Troisieme Lecon de Tenebres a 2 voix (Francois Couperin)
10. L'Arabesque (Marin Marais) 4th book of Pieces de viole
11. Fantaisie en Mi mineur (arranged by J. Savall d'apres Mr. de Sainte Colombe le fils)
12. Le Pleurs (Mr. de Sainte Colombe) version for 2 viols
13. Le Badinage (Marin Marais) 4th book of Pieces de viole
14. Tombeau pour Mr. de Sainte Colombe (Marin Marais)
15. Muzettes I-II (Marin Marais) 3rd book of Pieces de viole
16. Sonnerie de Ste. Genevieve du Mont-de- Paris (Marin Marais)

Album Details

The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack to the Film by Jordi Savall.

Customer Reviews:

Beware - this is NOT the right version!.......2007-07-07

This is a fantastic CD and all, but as of July '07, what they're shipping is not the "10 Years After" (Dix Ans Apres) version, which includes a bonus disc and has all 33 pieces listed on this page. I got a single 16-song disc, the same one I bought 3 or 4 years ago. Buyer beware.

Disc one is great....disc two doesn't exist...beware.......2007-07-05

I have the original 16-track version of this recording and couldn't agree more with the glowing comments left by others. However, this listing is somewhat misleading as the reviews mention that it is a newer release with a bonus disc containing 17 extra tracks. Since other reviews and the Alia Vox website itself mention that such a thing exists, I went ahead and ordered it, only to receive the same single disc version I already had. Amazon tells me the double one isn't available, so beware.

It's still great music though.

Hauntingly Beautiful.......2006-06-11

I was introduced to this utterly, utterly gorgeous soundtrack via a "friend of a friend", to whom I am eternally grateful. I listened to this on cassette tape too many times to count. The music is hauntingly beautiful and atmospheric, dark and moody, tragic and deep. This is music from the Baroque period but nothing like Bach, or Purcell, or Handel.

Vive Savall and M. Sainte Colombe .......2006-04-27

I saw the film and was enthralled by the portrayals of Sainte Colombe and Marin Marais. (Depardu was superb as always.) Some reviewers thought the film dull or tedious. I suppose in today's film culture where there is so much action without much substance there are those who would concur. I thought is was an excellent study of the characters and the music, which is rarity even in films about musicians.

French Baroque Performed by The Absolute Master of the Viola Da Gamba.......2005-10-09

In addition to French Baroque being generally and wrongly relegated to secondary status compared to Italian or German Baroque, there are probably less than 200 professional players who specialize in the viola da gamba as an instrument which was used mostly by French Baroque composers. Out of those few 200 performers, Jordi Savall is the undisputed master of his craft not only in performing French Baroque but really any Baroque piece for the viola da gamba. This soundtrack is a fine example on the diversity and depth of not only the viola's range but on works of various composers during the French Baroque period: especially the works of Marais and Sainte-Colombe. This album is also a great sample of the simply exemplary talent of Jordi Savall as a violist.

The double album primarily contains solos or duets for viola da gamba by Marais and Sainte-Colombe but has pieces by other contemporaries such as Lully. This album is a great sample of the variety of works and composers of the unique French Baroque tradition that continued to use the viola while other musical styles in Europe had virtually abandoned it for the cello. The viola da gamba has a lot more range, depth, and resonance than the cello and so the music is moodier and more contemplative than cello works such as Bach's magnificent cello suites. Solo music for viola from the French Baroque also allows freer interpretation than conventional compositions for orchestra or other chamber pieces. The jewel in this album is Marais' haunting but divine Sonnerie de Ste-Genevieve in which the dynamics of the violas and violins are truly a spiritual voyage into one's soul; at points serenely docile to demonically ferocious as if phantasms both luring and forbidding the listener to follow. The intricate complexity and resonance of this exquisite piece makes it one of the most spiritually moving Baroque sonet variations I have ever heard and it's one of my personal favorites. Both Marais and Sainte-Colombe were probably the pinnacle of achievement in terms of expressive techniques for the viola da gamba during the French Baroque period while later contemporaries such as Forqueray and Couperin became more formulaic although no less accomplished.

Jordi Savall has many priceless performances apart from this soundtrack and he is really the only competent artist for both viola da gamba specifically and primarily all French Baroque interpretations. There are no other viola players who can even compare to Savall as they really sound as little else than amateurs in comparison to his applied skills and passion of playing. I strongly recommend for anyone looking for music for viola da gamba or really any French Baroque to buy Savall/Le Concert Des Nations' performances exclusively as there's simply nothing else to look for or find that's in his caliber. Apart from a few other performnances by groups such as Les Arts Florissants, I guarantee you that the performances of all others in this style will rise to no further than being mediocre at best such as Harncourt or even Koopman who often plays with Savall. Most other viola performers quickly descend to atrocious standards in comparison to those of Savall. Even though Savall's recordings tend to be on the more expensive side, he's worth every penny take my word for it: you won't regret it! What you will regret is having bought a mediocre viola peformance after you hear Savall's as the differences will be very significant.

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